The radius and ulna are the two bones that comprise the forearm. Fractures of these bones are frequently encountered in veterinary medicine. Because of the conformation of the forearm, both bones, the radius and ulna, usually fracture at the same time.

These fractures are usually the result of trauma, but can be caused by disease of the bone itself. These fractures can occur in an immature bone (one that has not finished growing), or in a mature one, can be "open" or "closed" and can be "simple" or "comminuted." They can also involve either the carpus (wrist) or elbow joints.

Depending on the nature of the fracture and the age of the animal, different methods of repair may be indicated for each situation. Radius and ulna fractures can have serious complications if not repaired, or if the repair fails, and can result in developmental abnormalities of the leg if the animal is immature when the injury occurred.

What to Watch For

Lameness

Abnormally positioned leg

Pain or inability to move

Diagnosis

A thorough physical examination is important to determine if fractures are present and to determine if there are other injuries. No laboratory tests are required to make the diagnosis, but your veterinarian may recommend the following:

Complete orthopedic examination

Radiographs of the affected foot

Chest radiographs to determine other injuries

Treatment

Emergency care for concurrent problems caused by the trauma is the most important part of treatment. After stabilization, additional treatment may include:

Treatment of concurrent soft-tissue injuries

Cast or splint. Certain fractures of the forearm can be managed successfully with a cast or splint.

Surgery. Some radius and ulna fractures require anesthesia and surgical stabilization of the bone fragments for the best results

Pain medication. Injectable analgesics (pain medications) are given to the animal while being treated in the hospital and may be continued orally once discharged from the hospital.

Home Care and Prevention

Bring the animal to the veterinarian as soon as possible after any trauma for immediate attention. Try to prevent your pet from walking or moving too much. Prompt veterinary treatment is recommended. Do not attempt to place a splint or bandage on the leg unless there is profuse bleeding.

After surgical repair of the fracture, the animal must be kept restricted from activity for several weeks and the skin incision should be monitored while healing. A recheck with your veterinarian will occur in several weeks to evaluate how the bones are healing (with new radiographs), to monitor the animal's progress, and to make sure it is safe to increase the animal's activity level.

Many traumatic events are true accidents and thus unavoidable. Small dogs should be limited from jumping from heights. If these dogs are allowed on the furniture, ramps or stairs may allow these dogs to get up and down without risk of injury. Avoid the chance for motor vehicle trauma by not allowing your dog to roam.